NEET2026BiologyChapterActual
In the development of transgenic tobacco plants resistant to the nematode Meloidogyne incognita , Agrobacterium vectors are used to introduce nematode-specific genes into the host. Which of the following correctly explains the molecular basis of this defense strategy?
Options
- AThe introduced DNA produces a crystalline toxic protein that creates pores in the nematode's midgut.
- BThe introduced DNA produces both sense and anti-sense RNAs in the host cells that bind to form a double-strand
- CThe introduced DNA modifies the host plant's ribosomes to completely prevent the translation of any foreign mR
- DThe host plant is stimulated to produce specific antibodies that neutralize the nematode's digestive enzymes.
Correct answer
B. The introduced DNA produces both sense and anti-sense RNAs in the host cells that bind to form a double-strand
Step-by-step solution
The defense strategy used in transgenic tobacco plants against the nematode Meloidogyne incognita is based on RNA interference (RNAi). Using Agrobacterium vectors, nematode-specific genes are introduced into the host plant. The introduced DNA is designed in such a way that it produces both sense and anti-sense RNAs in the host cells. These two RNAs are complementary to each other and bind to form a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). This dsRNA initiates RNA interference and silences the specific mRNA of the nematode, the